What is the first step in managing a conscious patient with difficulty breathing and an oxygen saturation of 92%?

In managing a conscious patient with difficulty breathing and an oxygen saturation of 92%, the first step is to apply high flow oxygen. This approach is crucial because the patient's oxygen saturation level is below normal, indicating that they may not be receiving enough oxygen to meet their body's needs.

Administering high flow oxygen helps increase the amount of oxygen delivered to the lungs and subsequently to the bloodstream, which is essential in addressing the hypoxia that the patient is experiencing. This can provide immediate relief and improve the patient’s condition, making it easier for them to breathe as the oxygen levels rise.

In situations where patients display respiratory distress and have low oxygen saturation, it is vital to provide supplemental oxygen promptly to support their respiratory function and ensure adequate tissue oxygenation. This intervention takes precedence over other actions like assisting ventilations or chest compressions, which are typically reserved for more critical scenarios where ventilation or circulation is severely compromised. By starting with high flow oxygen, you are taking direct action to alleviate the immediate issue of low oxygen levels while monitoring the patient's response and condition.